Sesquicentennial

Dear Friend, Sesquicentennial - Not Just Fun to Say 150 years is a big deal no matter what you're talking about. Nobody, personally, remembers what happened 150 years ago. It's just not possible. That is why it is so important to have story tellers and re-enactors to bring to life events that took place just outside our ability to experience them yet still important enough to impact who we are today.

Why is the "Northern Most Skirmish" Important to Us Today? Franklin County can be defined by the re-telling of the story of how a community responded to a few bad guys shooting up our town. Great, great relatives jumped to arms. Friends of friends of friends rode out after the escapees. And witnesses left their written and verbal accounts for us to find.   The plaque outside the TD Bank Building lays tribute to the "stirring incident" that took place on that October day back in 1864 - 150 years ago. Stirring up a community and a past generation to action.   150 years later, Franklin County is still responding to skirmishes and stirring incidents with bravery, leadership and history changing action. Our police, firefighters, first responders, politicians, village leaders and everyday citizens continue to take on all challenges that come against our way of life and peaceful community.   History helps us define our future.    So, Get Involved From September 18th - 21st, Franklin County will be hosting the 150th Anniversary Commemoration of the St. Albans Raid. You can be a part of re-telling history. It's not too late to volunteer to help or join in on the celebration. Check out the www.stalbansraid.com for a calendar of events. Contact the organizers to find out how you can get plugged in.   OK, but I'd Rather Run That reminds me - the Chamber is hosting our second St. Albans Raid Half Marathon as part of the 150th celebration. On Sunday, September 21st, you can "Run Like a Bandit" through the streets and trails of St. Albans. Be part of the most unique start of any race anywhere when a round of musket fire sets you on your way. Register online at www.active.com - keyword "Raid Race" - there is still time.

Thank you for your continued support of the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick